Ever wonder how those wild aviation headlines actually come together, and what’s really going on behind the scenes when travel chaos hits the news? This week, we’re recording *on location* in New York City and flipping the script with someone who usually asks us the questions. We’re joined by consumer travel reporter Zach Wichter, and trust us, this one is packed with insight, laughs, and plenty of “oh wow, that tracks” moments.

We dig into passenger behavior, TikTok “travel hacks,” accessibility issues, and why everything in aviation always comes back to safety. From crazy inflight stories to how travel journalism actually works at USA Today, this conversation hits that sweet spot between informative and wildly relatable. If you’ve ever rolled your eyes at the seatbelt sign being ignored—or wondered why you can’t just move to an empty seat—this episode is for you.

This episode of the Two Guys on a Plane Podcast was recorded on site at the USA Today Bureau in New York City, NY.

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Episode Highlights:

[0:00] We kick things off with real (and unhinged) aviation headlines that prove we can’t make this stuff up.
[2:18] Zach shares a truly horrifying passenger story involving bare feet, armrests, and lifelong trauma.
[4:00] We dig into how Zach accidentally found his way into aviation and travel journalism.
[6:00] Talking flight anxiety, routines, and why knowing too much can make you a worse passenger.
[8:14] How aviation stories get written—breaking news vs. consumer travel advice.
[10:31] Balancing passenger outrage with airline reality (and why safety is always the subtext).
[16:55] TikTok travel hacks: why we’re not buying them and how they create more chaos than comfort.
[19:15] Hate mail, frequent flyer bragging, and what reader feedback really looks like.
[22:52] A deep dive into flight attendant history and why the role has always been about safety.
[28:11] Accessibility, damaged wheelchairs, and why airlines still aren’t doing enough.
[33:42] Why you can’t just move to an empty seat—and why this story struck a nerve.
[37:35] Disruptive passengers, post-COVID behavior, and why crews act fast now.
[43:36] Zach’s biggest passenger pet peeves (spoiler: seatbelts and headphones).
[45:43] Travel habits that actually make flying easier—no “hacks” required.
[52:05] Flight attendant pet peeves, favorite things crews do, and long-winded announcements.
[54:21] Lightning round: window vs. aisle, favorite airports, snacks, and dream destinations.

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What's Really Happening in Aviation Right Now with USA Today's Zach Wichter

Two Guys on a Plane

What's Really Happening in Aviation Right Now with USA Today's Zach Wichter